New research highlights how AI can transform administrative tasks for UK public workers.
- The study suggests a potential reduction of 23 million hours of admin work weekly.
- AI can free frontline workers, improving their service delivery and overall wellbeing.
- Healthcare professionals like doctors and nurses may benefit the most, saving several hours weekly.
- The administrative burden negatively impacts mental health, job satisfaction, and service quality.
New research commissioned by Microsoft reveals that AI technology holds significant promise in reducing the administrative workload of public sector employees in the UK. Developed by Dr. Chris Brauer from Goldsmiths, University of London, the report “Harnessing the Power of AI for the Public Sector” indicates that AI could free frontline workers from bureaucratic tasks, thus enhancing their ability to deliver services and improve their mental health.
The report estimates that by implementing AI, public sector workers could save up to 23 million hours per week from administrative tasks. With approximately 5.93 million public sector employees, the potential time-saving per individual could be significant. For instance, doctors might gain four additional hours weekly, while nurses could save five hours. Similarly, police officers and teachers might benefit from 6.5 and two hours saved, respectively.
The analysis further highlights that managing data constitutes the most time-consuming task for public sector employees, averaging over eight hours weekly. High administrative workload has adverse effects, with 45% of respondents feeling overwhelmed by unnecessary tasks, negatively impacting their mental health. Additionally, a significant majority, 55%, report that administrative duties impede their primary job functions.
Moreover, job satisfaction and motivation are compromised, with 54% of workers citing admin overload as a detriment to their roles. The provision of quality service is also at risk, as 48% acknowledge compromised service delivery, and 49% express that excessive admin duties limit their engagement with the public.
The sentiment towards reducing administrative burdens is strong, with 57% of public sector staff preferring to minimize such tasks. Dr. Brauer notes the potential transformational impact of AI, stating, “Rapid advances in AI mark an inflection point for public sector organizations worldwide.”
To effectively harness AI, the report outlines several strategies, including establishing a National AI Delivery Centre, implementing AI literacy principles, and promoting continuous learning and data sharing. Other recommendations involve modernizing procurement processes and investing strategically in AI technologies, which could position the UK as a leader in AI-driven public service innovation.
According to Hugh Milward, Vice President of External Affairs at Microsoft UK, effectively integrating AI into public services can significantly enhance the efficiency of frontline workers, allowing them to focus more on critical tasks.
AI has the potential to revolutionize public sector efficiency, enhancing service delivery while improving employee wellbeing.
